VP Alupo urges quality work as 15km Katakwi road construction begins

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Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo has officially launched the construction of a 15-kilometre road linking Adacar, Okuliak and Amendera in Ongongoja subcounty, Katakwi district, at a cost of sh140 million.

The road project is funded by the Government of Uganda under the sh1 billion allocation for each district and municipality dedicated to road maintenance. It is expected to be completed within 23 days and will be implemented by the Katakwi District Local Government.

VP Alupo being welcomed by residents during the launch of the road construction in Ongongoja Sub-County, Katakwi District. (Credit by Delux Emmy Alomu)

Speaking on Monday, January 12, 2026, Alupo, who is also the Woman MP for Katakwi district, said the road would significantly improve access to markets, healthcare services and agricultural opportunities once completed.

She emphasised the need for high-quality work and warned against substandard construction practices.

“We cannot afford to waste government resources on shoddy projects. This road must meet the highest standards,” she said.

Alupo also urged the district local government to prioritise the recruitment of local residents for casual labour so that the project benefits the community beyond infrastructure development.

She said that under President Museveni’s leadership, government efforts to lift communities out of poverty begin with ensuring peace, which remains intact.

“With the prevailing peace, we can now focus on building good roads to connect people to schools, markets, and healthcare facilities. We are investing in electricity, air transport, water transport, and railways to enhance the mobility of goods and services,” she added.

The Vice President encouraged residents to closely monitor the construction process to ensure public funds are used responsibly.

Usuk County MP Bosco Okiror, who attended the launch, called on the community to take ownership of government programmes such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga to maximise their benefits, particularly for rural populations.

He described the road project as a major boost for the district and urged technical staff to pay special attention to maintenance in flood-prone sections to ensure sustainability.

The road is expected to improve transport, service delivery, security and economic activity in Ongongoja subcounty.

Katakwi resident district commissioner Stephen Ilemukorit Okure said construction works had commenced immediately, starting with clearing and levelling. He urged residents to act as “engineers” by monitoring the project to ensure value for money.

Katakwi district chief administrative officer Samuel Baker Opio thanked the Vice President for her continued commitment to peace and development in Katakwi and across the country.

He said the road would strengthen connectivity and boost economic activity between Katakwi district and the Karamoja sub-region.

“This road is crucial in linking communities to social services, markets, and farms, which will significantly enhance local livelihoods,” Opio said.

Simon Peter Amaitum, the LC1 chairperson of Okuliak village, thanked the government for the development and called on residents to support President Museveni in the forthcoming general elections.

Representing Maj. Gen. Wilberforce Nserunkuma, the 3rd Division Infantry Commander, Col. Jude Rukuubya, the Usalama Brigade commander, said the road would also enhance security between the Teso region and Karamoja by improving access to Napak district.

“With improved road access, security personnel will be able to respond swiftly, particularly in cases of cattle rustling and other security threats,” Rukuubya said.